Australia’s heaviest drinkers account for a staggering amount of the nation’s alcohol consumption, research shows. Photo: Getty Australia’s plan for tackling alcohol abuse and harm has been compromised because of meddling from the alcohol industry, health experts have warned. Background Briefing has seen a leaked copy of the latest draft National Alcohol Strategy, which is supposed to be a national blueprint for tackling alcohol-related harm. Some state and territory ministers are so concerned by the involvement of the alcohol industry in the new draft of the strategy, they are now refusing to endorse it. The impasse is presenting an obstacle for Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt, as he seeks to finalise the long-awaited blueprint. “I’m not sure why we need to see it watered down,” Western Australian Health Minister Roger Cook said. “Minister Hunt now needs to re-examine his conscience.” ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith said industry inclusion in […]